Maltese: Complete Guide to Temperament, Care, and Costs

The Maltese is one of the oldest and most elegant toy breeds, with a history stretching back over 2,000 years. Draped in a flowing white coat and possessing a gentle, trusting temperament, the Maltese has been prized as a companion dog by royalty, aristocrats, and dog lovers across civilizations. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are spirited, adaptable dogs with a charm that transcends their tiny size. This guide covers everything you need to know about this timeless breed.

Overview

The Maltese is an ancient breed with origins tracing to the central Mediterranean, possibly the island of Malta (though this is debated). References to Maltese-like dogs appear in Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art and literature dating back to around 500 BCE. The breed was a favorite of Roman matrons and has been associated with luxury and refinement throughout its long history.

Maltese belong to the AKC Toy Group. They stand 7 to 9 inches at the shoulder and weigh under 7 pounds, with most falling in the 4 to 6-pound range. Their coat is always white, long, and silky. The AKC recognized the breed in 1888.

The breed has maintained its role as a devoted companion for thousands of years without significant changes to its basic type. Few breeds can claim such consistency of purpose across such a long history.

Temperament and Personality

Maltese are gentle, playful, and affectionate dogs that form deep bonds with their owners. They combine a sweet, trusting nature with a surprising amount of spirit and confidence. Despite their tiny size, they carry themselves with a dignified poise that reflects their aristocratic heritage.

Their energy level is moderate for a toy breed. Maltese enjoy play and short walks but are equally content to relax on your lap. They are active enough to be entertaining without being demanding.

Maltese are devoted to their owners and prefer to be with their people at all times. They can develop separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Their need for companionship is genuine and deep-rooted.

Unlike some toy breeds, Maltese are typically gentle and sweet rather than snappy or aggressive. They tend to be friendly with people they know and politely curious about strangers. Some individuals can be timid with unfamiliar people, making early socialization important.

Maltese are alert and will bark to announce visitors or unusual activity, but they are generally less vocal than breeds like Pomeranians or Yorkshire Terriers.

Exercise Needs

Maltese need 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. Short walks, indoor play, and gentle games are sufficient for this small breed. Their compact size means they can get meaningful exercise within the home.

The best activities include short walks, indoor fetch, puzzle toys, and gentle play with appropriately sized dogs. Some Maltese enjoy agility courses designed for toy breeds.

Protect Maltese from extreme weather during outdoor activities. Their small size and single-layer coat make them sensitive to both cold and heat. In cold weather, a sweater is appropriate. In hot weather, keep outdoor time brief and well-shaded.

Grooming Requirements

The Maltese coat is one of the breed’s most stunning features and its most demanding care requirement. The traditional full coat is floor-length, pure white, and silky, requiring daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.

Most pet owners opt for a “puppy cut” that keeps the hair short and manageable. Even with a short trim, brushing two to three times per week is necessary. Professional grooming every four to six weeks is recommended regardless of coat length.

Tear staining is one of the most common grooming concerns. Many Maltese develop reddish-brown stains beneath their eyes. Daily wiping with a damp cloth or specialized tear stain remover helps manage this issue. The underlying causes can include excessive tearing, diet, or allergies.

The white coat shows dirt easily and may require more frequent bathing than darker-coated breeds — every two to three weeks for show dogs, every three to four weeks for pets.

Dental care is critically important. Maltese, like many toy breeds, are highly prone to dental disease. Daily tooth brushing is strongly recommended, and professional dental cleanings may be needed more frequently than in larger breeds. Nail trimming every two to three weeks and weekly ear cleaning complete the routine.

Common Health Issues

Maltese face several health concerns common to toy breeds. Patellar luxation is one of the most frequent orthopedic issues. Dental disease is almost universal without proactive prevention.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and other congenital heart defects occur in the breed. Liver shunts (portosystemic shunts) affect Maltese at higher rates than many breeds, potentially requiring dietary management or surgical intervention.

Progressive retinal atrophy and other eye conditions can occur. White dog shaker syndrome (idiopathic cerebellitis) causes tremors in some small white dogs, including Maltese. Hypoglycemia is a risk in very small puppies.

Collapsed trachea is another concern, making the use of harnesses instead of collars an important preventive measure. Recommended health tests include a patella evaluation, cardiac exam, and ophthalmologist exam.

Lifespan

The typical lifespan of a Maltese is 12 to 15 years, with many individuals living well into their mid-teens. Their small size contributes to their longevity. Dental care, weight management, and regular veterinary attention all support a long, healthy life.

Cost to Buy and Maintain

Maltese puppies from reputable breeders typically cost ~$1,500 to ~$3,000. Very small individuals or show-quality puppies may command higher prices. Rescue adoption typically costs ~$200 to ~$500.

Annual costs include:

• Food: ~$150 to ~$400 per year
• Veterinary care: ~$400 to ~$1,000 for routine care, with dental care a significant component
• Grooming: ~$500 to ~$1,200 per year
• Pet insurance: ~$300 to ~$700 per year
• Toys, treats, and supplies: ~$100 to ~$300 per year

Total annual cost of ownership typically ranges from ~$1,450 to ~$3,600. Professional grooming and dental care are the most significant recurring expenses.

Best For

Maltese are ideal for people who want a gentle, devoted companion in a small package. They are excellent for apartment living, seniors, singles, and couples who can provide regular companionship.

Those who enjoy grooming and coat care will appreciate the Maltese’s beautiful coat as a rewarding hobby. People who want a portable, travel-friendly companion will find the Maltese’s size and adaptable nature appealing.

First-time dog owners who are prepared for grooming commitments will find the Maltese’s gentle temperament manageable and rewarding.

Not Ideal For

Families with very young children or toddlers should exercise caution. The Maltese’s tiny, fragile body can be seriously injured by rough handling. Children should be old enough to understand gentle interaction.

People who cannot commit to regular grooming should not choose a Maltese. Coat neglect leads to painful matting. Similarly, those who are unwilling to address dental care should consider breeds less prone to dental disease.

Anyone wanting a hiking, running, or outdoor adventure companion should look elsewhere. Maltese are not built for strenuous activity.

Those who want a guard dog or a dog with strong protective instincts will not find those qualities in a Maltese.

Training

Maltese are moderately easy to train. They are intelligent and responsive to gentle, positive methods. Their desire to please their owner makes them willing learners.

Keep training sessions short, positive, and rewarding. Maltese respond well to treats and praise and poorly to harsh corrections. Their sensitivity means that raised voices or punitive methods can cause them to shut down or become fearful.

Housetraining can be challenging due to their small size (tiny bladder) and sometimes delicate constitution regarding weather. Indoor potty options may be useful as supplements. Crate training and consistent schedules support the process.

Early socialization prevents timidity and builds confidence. Expose puppies to varied people and experiences in a gentle, positive manner.

Small Dog Syndrome is a risk. Owners who baby their Maltese and fail to set boundaries create entitled, potentially snappy dogs. Maintain consistent expectations regardless of the dog’s small size.

Compatibility

With children: Maltese are best with older, gentle children. Their fragile size makes them unsuitable for homes with toddlers or rough-playing young children. They can be wonderful companions for respectful older children.

With cats: Maltese typically coexist well with cats. Their low prey drive and gentle nature make them compatible feline housemates.

With other dogs: Maltese generally get along with other small dogs. They should be carefully supervised around much larger dogs to prevent accidental injury. Some Maltese can be assertive with other dogs despite their small size.

Key Takeaways

• Maltese are gentle, elegant companion dogs with a 2,000-year history of devoted companionship.
• Their white coat requires regular professional grooming and daily attention to tear staining.
• Dental disease is nearly universal without proactive preventive care — daily tooth brushing is essential.
• They are long-lived dogs (12 to 15 years) with modest exercise needs suitable for apartment living.
• Their fragile size makes them unsuitable for homes with very young children.
• For owners who value beauty, gentleness, and devoted companionship, the Maltese is a timeless choice.

Next Steps

If the Maltese appeals to you, find a breeder who tests for cardiac, patellar, and eye conditions. Read our guide on how to choose the right dog breed. Compare the Maltese with the Havanese for a slightly sturdier toy breed, or the Yorkshire Terrier for a toy breed with more terrier spirit. Our dog grooming guide will help you prepare for the Maltese’s coat care needs.